Ride Information

The 20th Annual Covington Century is a fun family event for cyclists of all ages and abilities.  The bicycle ride offers route options of 30, 50, 80 and 100 miles and is fully supported, complete with well-stocked rest stops and a hearty spaghetti supper for all finishers.  While the event is fun, it serves a greater purpose – to raise money to continue to serve the children and teens who come to live and learn at the Project Adventure Kids campus every day.

The Route
The Covington Century travels through Newton, Jasper, Morgan & Walton counties and through the communities of Newborn, Mansfield, Social Circle & Rutledge. The course goes near Covington, Monticello & Madison.  Although The Covington Century has earned the reputation as one of the fastest (and flattest) rides in Georgia our course does include a few gentle hills.

This year, the 30 mile route has been changed to keep cyclists on more scenic back roads and to avoid GA Hwy 11 as much as possible.  An additional rest stop is in the works too – this will give 30 mile participants two opportunities to stop and re-hydrate.

For the 50, 80 and 100 mile options, the routes are the same as 2007 but some rest stops have been moved to locations with more shade or other facilities.

teamAdventure
2008 is the first year that the kids & staff of Project Adventure Kids will be riding in their own cycling event, thanks to a generous donation of bicycles by a major corporation and the support of Conte’s, Conyers’ local bike shop.  Please support teamAdventure, seen in bright green shirts, by passing along encouraging words or chatting with the kids as you ride by.

The Heat
Preparing for any athletic event, including The Covington Century is important to ensure the enjoyment of your day.  Georgia is hot in August – proper training, hydration, electrolyte replacement and nutrition, along with sunscreen, is essential. Ride within your ability and please plan accordingly.

Rules of the Road
Helmets are required for all cyclists.  Share the road – cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists.  Pass on the left, ride no more than 2 abreast, stop at all stop signs and traffic lights, call out obstacles & turns, be predicable. 

Early Starters
In years past, some cyclists have chosen to begin the ride early to ‘beat the heat.’  While we understand their predicament, we are not prepared to accommodate early starters. An extra 30 minutes of cool weather won’t make up for a lack of water or support should you need it.  Our law enforcement resources, traffic control, communications, mobile support vehicles and rest stops are based on an 8am start time and therefore we officially discourage early starters.  Our best advice to deal with the heat is to train well, start on time and take advantage of our many rest stops with hydration, food & shade.

About Covington
The Covington Century isn't the only event that makes Covington & Newton County special.  The Dukes of Hazzard, In the Heat of the Night, Cannonball Run, My Cousin Vinny and many other movies & television shows have been filmed here.  Aside from the entertainment industry, Newton County has a lot to see & do and makes for a great weekend trip.  We're working with local hotels to provide lodging for cyclists looking to stay in the area either before and/or after the ride.  Check back for updates periodically.  Click HERE for Newton County visitor information